There's nothing like the holidays in Kentucky, and we're the types who want to do all the Christmas things during this festive, fleeting season. So we thought, why not put together a holly jolly Kentucky adventure that combines two of our favorite festive activities: a Christmas train in Kentucky and an overnight getaway at a decked-to-the-nines hotel in one of our favorite Christmas towns? If you're looking for a big, ole dose of holiday cheer, come with us on this Kentucky holiday adventure!
Every year as Christmastime rolls around, Kentucky transforms into an enchanting holiday wonderland that's downright delightful. There's so much to see and do, it's easy to become overwhelmed and let the holidays pass you by. But that doesn't have to be the case this year!
We're big fans of a holiday getaway; an overnight excursion that forces folks to stop and savor the season. Enter: our Kentucky holiday adventure, a trip that combines two of our favorite Christmas traditions in Kentucky: a festive train ride *and* overnight at a holiday resort in Kentucky!
First up: the North Pole Express ride at My Old Kentucky Dinner Train in Bardstown. My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is a popular adventure year-round, and by all accounts, it's worth every penny. Not only will you experience a wonderful atmosphere, but you'll also get to experience a slice of Kentucky's railroad history. Folks are especially enthusiastic about the Bourbon Excursion, a 2.5-hour trip that includes a gourmet meal and Kentucky bourbon tasting! But, today, we're focused on the North Pole Express.
The North Pole Express is a two-hour train ride that's a hit with the young and young at heart and features a gourmet three-course meal, hot cocoa, sing-a-longs, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus! This beloved couple loves taking a ride on My Old Kentucky Dinner Train and encourages participants to come in their pj's and enjoy a night of magic in the heart of Horse Country.
After your holiday train ride, it's time to check in to one of the most gorgeous hotels in Kentucky: the Galt House. It's one of the most iconic places to stay in Louisville, boasting breathtaking views of the Ohio River. If you can book a room with a water view, do it! Each year, the hotel's "Christmas at the Galt House" is a memorable holiday event with decked-to-the-nines halls, trees, lights, shows, carolers, and so much more.
The iconic hotel -- Louisville's only waterfront hotel, in fact -- positively dazzles during Christmastime, with its Conservatory transforming into an enchanting winter wonderland for guests to enjoy.
If you're lucky, you might even get to visit Santa at the Galt House Hotel, too! (He likes to make his rounds in the Bluegrass State...) Be on the lookout for Breakfast with Santa events in December, because you know the Man in Red adores his pancakes!
Don't let the holiday season pass you by. Stop and savor everything that makes Christmas in Kentucky so special on this festive overnight adventure! Christmas truly is the most magical time of the year, and this Kentucky holiday adventure is peak holly jolly vibes. Speaking of Christmas, be sure to take a look at our ultimate gift-giving guide for all the travel enthusiasts on your list this season!
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